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The thickness of movable partition walls varies widely depending on their function, material, structural requirements, and performance needs (e.g., acoustic insulation, fire resistance, load-bearing capacity). Below is a detailed introduction to common thickness ranges and their applications:
1. Key Factors Influencing Thickness
| A. Material Composition | Aluminum/Glass Partitions | Lightweight, suitable for modern offices; thickness typically 60–150 mm. |
| Gypsum Board/Plaster Partitions | Common in interior spaces; thickness ranges from 80–150 mm. | |
| Solid Wood/Composite Panels | Thicker for durability and aesthetics; 100–200 mm or more. | |
| Metal-Framed Partitions | Heavy-duty systems (e.g., for commercial use) may be 150–300 mm thick. | |
| B. Performance Requirements | Acoustic Insulation | Thicker walls with sound-absorbing cores (e.g., mineral wool) achieve higher Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings. For example: STC 35–45: Thickness of 100–150 mm (suitable for offices). STC 50+: Thickness of 180–300 mm (required for conference rooms or auditoriums). |
| Fire Resistance | Fire-rated partitions need thicker layers of non-combustible materials (e.g., gypsum, steel). Thickness often ranges from 100–200 mm for 1–2 hour fire ratings. | |
| Load-Bearing Capacity | Structural partitions (e.g., in commercial buildings) may require thicker profiles (200–400 mm) to support upper floors or equipment. | |
| C. Application Scenario | Residential/Office Use | Thin partitions (60–150 mm) for flexibility and space efficiency. |
| Commercial/Industrial Use | Thicker partitions (150–300 mm+) for robustness and safety (e.g., hotels, convention centers, hospitals). |
2. Common Thickness Ranges and Applications
The table below summarizes typical thicknesses for different movable partition types:
| Partition Type | Thickness Range | Key Features | Ideal Use Cases |
| Lightweight Aluminum/Glass | 60–120 mm | Slim design, modern aesthetics, poor sound insulation. | Office cubicles, meeting rooms, retail spaces. |
| Gypsum Board/Plaster | 80–150 mm | Moderate sound insulation, fire-resistant (with mineral wool cores). | Interior walls in homes, schools, hospitals. |
| Wood/Composite Panels | 100–200 mm | High durability, natural aesthetics, better sound absorption. | Luxury offices, hotels, conference rooms. |
| Acoustic-Enhanced Partitions | 150–300 mm | Multi-layered cores (foam, wool, density boards) for STC 50+ ratings. | Recording studios, theaters, courtrooms. |
| Fire-Rated Partitions | 100–200 mm | Non-combustible materials (e.g., calcium silicate, steel) for 1–4 hour ratings. | Commercial buildings, stairwells, basements. |
| Heavy-Duty Metal/Concrete | 200–400 mm+ | Load-bearing, impact-resistant, suitable for extra-high spaces (>4 meters). | Industrial facilities, convention centers. |
3. Special Considerations for Thickness
| A. Height vs. Thickness | Extra-high partitions (e.g., >4 meters) often require thicker profiles (150–300 mm+) for stability. Thinner walls may flex or sag at greater heights, risking misalignment or structural failure. | Example: A 6-meter-tall partition in a convention center might use 200 mm-thick steel-framed panels with internal bracing. |
| B. Customization Options | Manufacturers can tailor thickness for unique needs: | Double-Wall Systems: Two separate partitions with an air gap (e.g., 100 mm + 100 mm) for superior sound insulation (STC 60+). |
| Modular Thickness: Panels with removable layers (e.g., add/remove acoustic foam) to adjust on-site. | ||
| C. Aesthetic and Space Implications | Thinner walls save floor space in tight environments (e.g., urban apartments). | Thicker walls may require recessed tracks or ceiling/floor mounts to avoid protruding into the room. |
4. How to Choose the Right Thickness
| Define Your Goals: | Prioritize soundproofing? Choose thicker acoustic cores. |
| Need fire resistance? Opt for fire-rated materials (e.g., 125 mm gypsum with mineral wool). | |
| Consult Manufacturers: | Most suppliers provide technical data sheets (TDS) with thickness-to-performance charts (e.g., STC, fire rating, load capacity). |
| Test with Samples: | Request physical samples to assess weight, stability, and aesthetics before full installation. |
5. Example Thickness Scenarios
Home Office Partition: A sliding glass partition with aluminum frames might be 80 mm thick, balancing light transmission and privacy.
Hotel Ballroom Divider: A motorized, fire-rated partition for a 5-meter-high space could be 180 mm thick, with STC 55 and a 2-hour fire rating.
Industrial Warehouse Separation: A heavy-duty, movable concrete partition might reach 300 mm thick to withstand machinery vibrations and impact.
Summary
Movable partition wall thickness is a critical design factor that balances functionality, safety, and aesthetics. Lightweight systems (60–150 mm) suit residential and office needs, while commercial/industrial applications demand thicker, more robust solutions (150–400 mm+). Always align thickness with local building codes, manufacturer recommendations, and the specific demands of your space.